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Review: Good Tidings of Great Joy

Good Tidings of Great Joy book cover on blue background

Over the years, I've gifted a number of beautiful Christmas books to others, which means that I don't actually own the type of Christmas books that you can put out on a coffee table or shelf. This changed after I saw Good Tidings of Great Joy: The Complete Story of Christmas from the New King James Version from Thomas Nelson Bibles.

Book Synopsis

Start a new holiday tradition as you read the Christmas story in the Bible’s own words.

His coming went unnoticed by most people, but it was foretold from ages past.

His birth wasn’t announced by royal proclamation, but it was lauded by the angels of heaven.

There were no servants to attend Him, but shepherds left their flocks and wise men left their homes to catch a glimpse of His glory.

At Christmastime, we gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus, an event that forever changed our world—and the hearts of billions. And there’s no better way to get in the true Christmas spirit than to immerse yourself in the story of His coming. Good Tidings of Great Joy is the story of the first Christmas as told by the Bible. Every word comes from the New King James Version of the Scriptures, but elements have been arranged to create one unbroken narrative, ideal for reading.

Thoughtfully designed, this book is the perfect addition to your holiday traditions. Read it together as a family or cozy up near the fireplace by yourself to reflect on the day that the Son of God left His heavenly throne to be placed in a humble manger.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

Although I always read Luke 2:1-21 as our Christmas passage in our home, I have to say that this book will make the Christmas reading look a little different this year. This beautiful book is divided into a prologue with nine chapters, along with an epilogue that is filled with the promises that Jesus has fulfilled. Furthermore, there is a selection of Christmas hymns and a log to track who has read the story each Christmas, making it a family-friendly keepsake that can be shared. Essentially, all of the Bible verses pertaining to the birth of Jesus Christ, both in what is foretold in the Old Testament along with the New Testament accounts, are collected and laid out in a way that makes it easier to read aloud.

I would recommend this book for families, but also individuals who want a memorable way to be immersed in Scripture this Christmas. References are clearly laid out in the back, and each chapter is a further progression of the story. While this is a book that I would readily gift to others, I'm also grateful that I have a copy of my own where I can reflect upon the Bible and the Christmas story. Including the print music for favourite Christmas hymns allows readers to lift their voices to God in song after reciting the Bible, making for an impactful worship experience. Good Tidings of Great Joy has and will stay out all Christmas for me.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📖
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍

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